If the application is successful, up to five paths in Echuca, Kyabram and Rushworth will have lights installed.
The vote on the Active Transport Fund program split the councillors, with Cr Rob Amos and Deputy Mayor Tony Marwood concerned about the potential funding commitment it would tie council to.
“I think we haven’t done enough work in this space,” Cr Amos said.
“It’s come out of the blue a little bit, and we’re talking $2.4 million of spending, which council needs to come up with half of.
“It’s not anywhere in our budget ... and this is not an insignificant amount of money.”
In response, the motion’s seconder, Cr Paul Jarman, said given the current lack of infrastructure, the grant opportunity was too good to ignore.
“This has come out of left field, I agree, but there (are) opportunities that come along (which) we should take,” he said.
“This is a stand-alone solar-lighting proposal we have in front of us (which) allows an opportunity to address one of the underlying issues.
“These projects come heavily subsidised by the government, we have reserves for key long-term projects ... (and) it’s also in our community plan in relation to shared pathways and walking paths.
“I’m probably known for my economic rationale at times, but this one to me is a no-brainier.”
Cr Zoe Cook’s motion was successful by a margin of four votes to two.
Council will apply for the grant, and if successful, match the Federal Government’s contribution.
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